It is the hug, is it not, that we seek?The innocent hugThe one that lets us finally rest in someone's armsSafetyThe love we sought as little boysNeededOffered by a new-found friendSo kindSo caringA demon in the roughWanting to recoilNot knowing howHow to stopHating what he didBut needing it so much The loveThat.......And so, there was no refuge to be hadNo strength to protectOnly strength that usedConfused us beyond all measureUntil, finally, no man was safeAll men the enemyNeeding more than friendshipSo much moreStill trapped inside an ancient fearAnd so, the hugThe eternal embraceSafety that we've never knownBut, who could understandIn a world so wrapped up in earthly taboosWho could understandThat such a simple thingAn understanding embraceSeeking nothing in returnCould cause an exhausted man to collapse in tearsAnd a little boy to, at last, find safety

If I could fantasize that the man existsThat would be gently confused with the term “boundaries”I could take a step toward his comforting chest Lie down and experience my brothers concern.He could reach with his hand to brush over my head And I wouldn’t tense up at his touchI fear that there has to be borders around and I make myself sentryHe is humored at my naivetéknowing his intimacy is pureHe’s my brother you see not the dark illusionthat my perp put on me.

When I disclosed to my parents two years ago, I arranged to do this in the office of a therapist near where they live. My Mom and Dad walked into the room and I stood to meet them. Before I could do more than take a step or two they had come right up to me and giving me hugs and telling me that whatever it was I could tell them and it would be okay - they were there for me. But I hardly heard what they had to say - what counted was the hugs!

Much love,Larry

_________________________Nobody living can ever stop meAs I go walking my freedom highway.Nobody living can make me turn back:This land was made for you and me.(Woody Guthrie)

((Bobby)) A soft, safe hug for you, my friend. You are so right about how it is the love we sought as little boys, and what we should have received. It's through you and many others here that I'm learning how to trust those kind of hugs again. Thank you.

I
agree that my access and use of the MaleSurvivor discussion forums and
chat room is subject to the terms of this Agreement. AND the sole
discretion of MaleSurvivor. I agree that my use of MaleSurvivor
resources are AT-WILL,
and that my posting privileges may be terminated at any time, and for
any reason by MaleSurvivor.